The Southeast Michigan Chamber of Commerce is proud to congratulate longtime Chamber friend Tom Bommarito, Director of Community, Economic and Downtown Development for the City of Warren, on receiving the distinguished MEDA Medalist Award from the Michigan Economic Developers Association. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals who have made a lasting impact on economic development across the state—and Tom’s selection from a highly competitive field underscores the depth of his leadership, innovation, and dedication. His relationship with the Chamber, and his decades-long friendship with CEO John Johnson, make this recognition especially meaningful for our organization and community.

Driving Warren’s Economic Comeback Through Vision and Action

Tom’s public-sector career has been defined by ambitious redevelopment projects, strategic partnerships, and a relentless focus on revitalization. His leadership of Warren’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority has helped transform legacy industrial sites—most notably the former Chevy Transmission Plant—into economic engines for the future, including attracting Graphex, one of the first graphite refining operations in the United States. Through Warren’s Tax-Increment Finance Authority, he has overseen the revitalization of distressed neighborhoods and championed the development of Civic Center South, now home to an all-access playground, Burnette Library, a police annex, and a new Fire/EMS station.

A Legacy of Regional Leadership and Community Impact

Beyond major infrastructure and development initiatives, Tom’s influence extends into community programs powered by federal CDBG resources, housing support, and homeowner assistance—efforts rooted firmly in economic development principles. His civic and business leadership spans decades, from helping establish President Tuxedo and Freedom Hill Amphitheatre to co-founding the Woodward Dream Cruise. Tom’s active involvement with organizations including the Kiwanis Club, the Italian Chamber of Commerce, Selfridge ANGB, and the Southeast Michigan Chamber of Commerce highlights a career built not only on professional excellence but on service. His current work on a transformative mixed-use redevelopment around Warren’s City Hall stands as yet another example of his commitment to creating vibrant, walkable, and economically strong communities.